Author/illustrator, child development specialist/educator, Diane provides insight into the world of children's literature through several different perspectives. The goal is to provide high quality literature for children, parents and teachers.

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August 5, 2013

THE MONSTORE by TARA LAZAR

TARA LAZAR'S debut picture book, THE MONSTORE is a marvellous, monstrous tale of sibling troubles. TARA is well-known in children's literature circle for her championing and passion for picture books and their writers and illustrators. Her professionalism and respect transfers into her writing THE MONSTORE, a fast, fun read with twists. It tickles the reader. TARA takes a brother and little sister relationship and universalizes it in a sophisticated way where the reader or listener relate to both. Through her ability to spin a unique story, she maintains the tension between siblings and creates a reader/listener rooting and cheering for them and the loveable monsters. THE MONSTORE leaves the reader smiling and wanting more. I promised TARA, I would not give away the tricks, twists, nor ending. THE MONSTORE employs a nameless character with the cleverness of Dr. Seuss's Sylvester McMonkey McBean. This monster of a manager artfully teases and tenses the reader/listener. Placing TARA'S text with JAMES BURKS larger than life illustrations completes the package. Reading THE MONSTORE, one would never suspect this picture book to be TARA'S first. I can't wait for her future books to come out.

I
give this book 5 apples, cream of the crop. The ability of an author to successfully carry-out empathy and rooting for both characters while creating a modern day McBean with twists and turns makes this a stand-out book.

This
picture book is for children 4 through 8.
It has high appeal for boys and girls. This would be a great addition to a home, classroom, or library bookshelf. The themes in the book are siblings and rivalry, family, fairness, and resolving problems.

If you
want to find out more about authorTara Lazar, check out her website at:Tara's Website. THE MONSTORE is
published by Aladdin, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and is available at Barnes and Noble, online and through
your local independent bookseller.

7 comments:

I've heard so much about Tara's book. It sounds terrific and is definitely high on my to-read list. Thanks for giving us your review of it, Diane. And congratulations to you, Tara, on writing such a winner.

I just love your thoughtful reviews, Diane, and this one is no exception. THE MONSTORE is fun-filled and charmingly written. Tara has several other books down the pipeline and I can't wait to read those as well.